The main difference between RPGs and ARPGs is that the latter only uses story and lore as a flavour and does not always play a major part in the game. ARPGs are also classed by a lot faster gameplay, often described as "visceral gameplay" by the game developers themselves.

All of the Diablo games are ARPGs, and while this type of game existed before Diablo I, it was basically a genre that was properly welcomed to the masses with D1. More action and less management has proven to be very popular.

While Diablo III will feature more story and lore, it will all mostly be optional, and not interfering with the fast paced gameplay. Game mechanics such as Health Globes are also part of the concept that fits an ARPG over a traditional RPG.